A woman has died following a brutal axe attack at the University of Warsaw, Polish authorities have confirmed. The incident took place inside the university’s main auditorium on Wednesday evening.
The victim, a 53-year-old university porter, was attacked inside the Auditorium Maximum building shortly after 18:40 local time (16:40 GMT). A 39-year-old security guard who tried to intervene was seriously injured during the assault.
Police have arrested a 22-year-old Polish man in connection with the attack. Local prosecutors revealed he is a third-year law student, originally from outside Warsaw. The motive for the attack remains unclear.
In a statement, the University of Warsaw described the incident as a “huge tragedy” and announced a day of mourning for Thursday. All classes were cancelled in response.
Rector Alojzy Nowak expressed condolences on behalf of the university community: “We express our great sorrow and sympathy to the family and loved ones.”
Poland’s Justice Minister, Adam Bodnar, who was nearby for a panel discussion at the time, said one of his security officers responded quickly to assist the injured university guard. The officer has been commended for his actions.
Warsaw Mayor Rafał Trzaskowski condemned the attack, calling it a “macabre crime” and demanded a severe response to what he described as a “brutal” act of violence.
